Do Adults Benefit from Play?

When was the last time you played? Can you still remember it? We’re not talking about competitive play. It’s about playing in the field or a playground. When was the last time you felt that carefree? All of us have, at one point in our lives, played in a field with our friends without realizing that was the last time. Sad? Yes. You should realize that playtime through adulthood is encouraged.

That’s why you’ll find playground architecture that caters to adults. That’s why adults have theme parks with rides that are specifically engineered for them. That’s why festivals include water slides and trampolines because adults want to have fun, too.

Experts say that adults don’t lose the need for novelty and pleasure when they grow up. You just take on more responsibilities, but your sense of wonder is still present. That’s why from time to time, you’d want to visit Disneyland or Six Flags. There’s something about visiting amusement parks that takes you to those humid summer days when you and your friends would worry about nothing else but the next ride.

A Lack of Play Can Lead to Burnout

Everyone needs to take a break. You will get burned out from working too much. This is the same logic behind taking vacations. Only with actual play, you don’t have to go out of town or country. You can relieve stress and anxiety with non-competitive play.

Also, play boosts self-motivation. Children who lack playtime are often unmotivated to do well in school and life afterward. The same goes for adults. Those who have to work for hours get stressed out. One day, they will find themselves doing their work mechanically and without motivation but money.

Play Strengthens Your Bodily Functions

Playing sports is a bit like exercising. Every muscle is functioning. Your brain is in overdrive. They say that laughter is the best medicine. There’s no clearer evidence of that than when you play with friends and family. You’ll laugh a lot. Your stomach muscles will ache from laughter. Isn’t that what you need after such a stressful week at work?

You’ll find that the physical activity of playing-competitive or non-competitive-is also good for your heart. It reduces coronary heart disease and strengthens your heart and lung functions. The simple act of jumping on a trampoline, for example, increases your heart rate and burns calories.

Play Wards off Depression

Playing also has a part in warding off depression. Physical play leads to the release of endorphins-or happy hormones. This elevates your mood and helps you feel relaxed. And when you’re in a good mood, risks of depression can be pushed farther away.

The release of endorphins can even temporarily relieve pain-both physical and emotional. That’s why when you’re heartbroken, people will advise you to play sports or go to the gym. Endorphins have a physical effect on your body. It’s almost like these hormones can heal your broken heart and aching muscles.

It’s never too late to rediscover the things you love as a child. Do you love playing with dolls? Why don’t you play pretend with your children or your nieces and nephews? Do you love going to theme parks? Then, do it. No one’s going to stop you, and theme parks are for everyone. You can even take on the kiddie rides. Rediscover the things you enjoy. You’ll soon find yourself more at peace.